Governor Appoints Interim NDOW Director

Carson City, Nevada - Governor Brian Sandoval today announced that George Tsukamoto has been appointed as Interim Director of the Nevada Department of Wildlife.

“George’s extensive experience as a wildlife biologist and administrator in Nevada will enable him to effectively lead the Department during this time of transition,” Governor Sandoval said. “George has been a public servant for more than 40 years – he is a well respected biologist, administrator and individual. I’m grateful that he has agreed to help lead the Department while we identify a permanent Director.”

Tsukamoto has 43 years of professional experience as a wildlife biologist, serving 33 years at the Nevada Department of Wildlife and ten years for the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. He was Chief of the Game Division of the Nevada Department of Wildlife for thirteen years. Tsukamoto has worked vigorously to restore wildlife species where they have become extinct or severely reduced by investigating causes and instituted reintroduction efforts. A Desert Bighorn Council member, Tsukamoto completed a Wildlife Disease Workshop with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in 1988. Tsukamoto is also a member of Nevada Bighorns Unlimited.

Tsukamoto has a degree in Wildlife Conservation from San Jose State University and conducted graduate studies at the University of Nevada, Reno and Colorado State University. He is a founding member of the Nevada Wildlife Record Book, a Scout Master, and has been an Official Measurer for the Boone and Crockett Club since 1973. Tsukamoto lives in Sparks with his wife.

Tsukamoto, who will serve as an independent contractor, will begin as Interim Director effective February 13 and will assist in conducting a nation-wide search for a permanent Director.